Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to
the flock. —1 Peter 5:3
What has happened in America? What has happened in our world? Maybe it is just the fact I am getting a little older now and things that weren’t important have now become important in my life. What has happened to our leadership? Not only on a world or national level, but in our communities, schools, and homes.
We complain about this generation. Yet, where are their examples? Look behind you and ask yourself, “Who is following me?” Children are left to their own devices. Where are Mom and Dad when they get home from school? When was the last time everyone sat down at home around the dinner table and had just one meal together communicating about the day as a family?
We live in a generation of blame. We often hear, “It is not my fault that this generation has turned out like they have,” but I say it is not the daycare, school, church, Sunday school teacher, or pastor’s job to train our children. The greatest example they have is those that brought them into this world.
This does not relieve us of the duty each of us has in life. Peter wrote to the elders (and this is not just a ministry word; elder here means “older”) that we all have a responsibility to lead an exemplary life in front of the next generation. It is true. We are in trouble, and we are behind the eight ball. Our world needs help. Our nation needs help, and our homes need help. So, let’s step up and accept responsibility. Lead by example.
Our prayer for you this week: May you come to live your life by example to those that are following you. May God change the next generation.
